A Step Above – Jade Welton
Green Valley High School
Class of 2013
Life is full of change, and Green Valley High School Student Body President Jade Welton has found much success in new beginnings. After moving to Las Vegas from Arizona during her sophomore year, she took an active role in both student government and cheer, showing tremendous school spirit and a passion for leadership. Poised and self assured, with a positive outlook that never lets the little things get her down, she hopes to make this coming year the best one yet. It’s that kind of dedicated confidence that helps place Jade Welton – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.2
Sports/Activities/Community Service
- Varsity Cheer, 2009-12
- Varsity Track, 2009-12
- JV Tennis, 2009-10
- Peoria Sea Turtles City Swim Team, 2010-11
- Student Council, 2009-12
- Class Committee, 2010-12
- Class President: Freshman, 2009-10; Sophomore, 2010-11; Junior, 2011-12
- Student Body President, 2012
- Gator Haven Anti-Bullying Campaign, 2011-12
- Relay for Life, 2009-10
- Walk for Hope, 2011-12
- JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes, 2011-12
Awards
- Academic Letter, 2009-10
- Honor Roll, 2009-11
- “Miss Versatile” (Cheer), 2010-11
- Most Spirited (Cheer), 2011-12
- Nominated for RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award), 2010-11
- 6th in Region for High Jump (Track), 2011-12
- 2nd in Region & 7th in State for 4 X 100m Relay (Track), 2011-12
- 4th in Region for Advanced Show Cheer Division, 2011-12
- 1st in Region for Intermediate Stunt Group Division (Cheer), 2011-12
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “I am most proud of becoming Junior Class President and Student Body President right after moving to not only a brand new school, but a brand new state! Becoming SBP has been a dream of mine since I was in 3rd grade. Now, I’m living my dream.”
Jade is Successful Because: “I have to say I am very driven. Things rarely get me down or make me upset. I just tend to look on the bright side of things, get through it, and look back and think about what I learned. Getting upset over things does not help the situation, you, or anyone else around you. I believe that life is too short to get upset over things.”
Improving Student Life: “I think that by including all of our clubs on campus in the events that happen at school, rather than just Student Council, more students will get the opportunity to be “behind the scenes” on school activities. By doing this, we will reach out to a larger variety of students, and we will be able to make it more enjoyable for everyone.”
A Step Above – Ashley Godfrey
Coronado High School
Class of 2013
Aristotle once said that we live in deeds, not years. If our accomplishments are indeed a measure of our integrity, then Coronado High School Student Body President Ashley Godfrey has shown her strength of character many times over. Elegant, assertive and firm in her beliefs, Ashley cherishes the positive role models in her life, cultivating their inspiring wisdom and guidance into a focused optimism that she uses to help others achieve their goals. With courage and confidence on her side and many dreams yet to fulfill, Ashley Godfrey rises to – A Step Above.
Sports/Activities
- Varsity Track and Field, 2009-Present
- Varsity Cross Country, 2009-11
- Bradley Tennis Academy, 2007-10
- Student Body President, 2012
- Class President: Freshman, 2009-10; Sophomore, 2010-11
- Junior Class Representative and First Lady, 2011-12
- Student Council Commission, 2009-10
- Girls State Delegate, 2012
- National Association of Student Councils Delegate, 2009-12
- Blue Ribbon Commission Delegate, 2009-13
- Youth Camp Leader, 2007-Present
Awards/Community Service
- Co-Ed Soccer Champions, 2010-11
- Powder Puff Champions, 2012
- Cross Country Regional and State, 2009-10
- Varsity Track and Field Regional and State, 2009-10
- Most Outstanding Freshman (Cross Country & Track), 2010
- Scholar Athlete, 2009-11
- Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network Walk, 2011-12
- St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital Volunteer, 2009-Present
- Eagle Scout Project Volunteer, 2007-Present
- Zion National Park Volunteer, 2009
- Cougars Care Coordinator, 2009-Present
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “Representing Coronado High School as Student Body President is my proudest accomplishment to date. Having been highly involved throughout my high school career, I hope to unite the student body and inspire them to reach their fullest potential.”
Part of the Solution: “I believe bullying is one of the greatest issues we face today. With a culmination of hate within social media websites and everyday teenage life pressures, students can become withdrawn socially and academically. I am involved with the ‘Be Kind’ Josh Stevens Foundation program that promotes awareness and inspires children to be more kind more often.”
Improving Student Life: “In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, ‘You must be the change you wish to see in the world.’ That being said, if I could make any change to improve Coronado High School, I must begin with me. Instilling this mindset into the students would not only improve our school, but also society… a mini utopia.”
A Step Above – Gabriella Nellis
Foothill High School
Class of 2013
As someone who likes to live in the moment, Foothill High School Student Body President Gabriella Nellis is laying the groundwork for a great future by making the most of today. Embracing her new leadership role with pride and enthusiasm, she’s out to bring a sense of camaraderie to her school, uniting everyone from freshmen to seniors as one big Falcon family. A passion for dance helps keep her spirits high, while giving back to the community allows her to change more lives than just those of her peers, elevating Gabriella Nellis to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.825
Sports/Activities/Community Service
- JV Dance, 2009-10
- Varsity Dance, 2010-11
- Senior Company at The Dance Zone, 2011-12
- Eco-Vision, 2011-12
- Student Council, 2009-12
- Student Body President, 2012
- Volunteer at Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter, 2011
- Volunteer at PB&J-A-Thon, 2012
- Volunteer at Silverman Triathlon, 2009-12
- Volunteer at Ragnar Race, 2009-12
Goals & Aspirations: “Right now, I want to be the best Student Body President I can be and make Foothill a truly friendly place. For the future, I hope to attend college and major in communications or English, then apply to join the Peace Corps, or I want to dance for Disney and tour on their cruises.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “Winning Student Body President is one of my most proud accomplishments. I lost my junior class election last year, so it was great to finally have hard work pay off.”
Gabriella is Successful Because: “The inspiring people that I have around me, my friends who are supportive and all the adults who believe in me. Every time I feel like giving up, they are there for me.”
Gabriella Looks Up To: “Jami Artiga and Kaydee Francis. They are my dance teachers/studio owners. These two lovely women have changed my life. Not only have they taught me and helped me grow as a dancer, they’ve helped me grow as a young woman. I look up to them as leaders because when I am around them, I feel comfortable and I trust them in every way. They are the perfect example of what kind of leader I want to be.”
Gabriella is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Being the oldest child in my family is a hard obstacle. Trying to always maintain a good image and be a good role model. I always say that I’m the blueprint, not the model.”
A Step Above – Scott Campagna
Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2012
It’s not just that State Championship ring that fills Bishop Gorman High School senior and baseball player Scott Campagna with pride; it’s his ability to persevere through adversity and find the confidence it takes to succeed, both on and off the field. This aspiring oral surgeon always swings for the fences, aided by a charming and outgoing personality that exemplifies charisma and drives his ambitions for the future. Looking back on all he’s achieved so far inspires him to accomplish even more, and that places Scott Campagna – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.5
Sports/Activities/Community Service
- Varsity Baseball, 2011-12
- Junior Varsity Baseball, 2009-10
- On Deck Baseball Academy Scout Team, 2011-12
- Bishop Gorman High School Links Leaders, 2011-12
- Matthew’s Closet, 2009-12
- Miracle League, 2011
- St. Vincent’s, 2011-12
- Opportunity Village, 2012
- Our Lady of Las Vegas Catholic Church, 2009-12
Awards
- Nevada State Championship (Baseball), 2011-12
- Scholar Athlete, 2009-12
- Most Outstanding Hitter (JV), 2009
- Student of the Year (Anatomy), 2010-11
- Student of the Year (Marine Biology), 2010-11
- St. Martin’s University Men’s Baseball Scholarship, 2012
- St. Martin’s University Faculty Scholarship, 2012
- Benedictine Heritage Scholarship, 2012
- Catholic Services Scholarship, 2012
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “My greatest accomplishment is my perseverance. I have had some obstacles to overcome, but I have always taken what comes at me head on. When I was in the seventh grade I was in a car accident that fractured my spine. It took a year of physical therapy, but I knew that I wanted to get back to playing baseball. I was faced with many challenges over the next few years, but I worked hard and used those challenges as motivation.”
Part of the Solution: “A key issue facing young adults today is finding the right group that accepts you. I have been caught in that cycle of doing stupid things for the acceptance of others. The only way out of that is to find yourself and understand what you truly want. When you find yourself, you start gravitating toward the people you like and who like you for you. One way to find who you are is to talk with different people and find a piece of yourself within them.”
Cause for Concern: “If I was the president of a non-profit organization, it would be for kids and young adults. If we don’t take care of our next generation, what will the future be like for them? It would strive to give kids the opportunities they would not have anywhere else. It will be an organization for a better future.”
A Step Above – Jordyn Martin
Palo Verde High School
Class of 2012
As he gears up for a college basketball career with Northern Arizona University, Palo Verde High School senior Jordyn Martin has not forgotten what got him where he is today. Guided by humility, determination and a grounded sense of professionalism, Jordyn hopes to have a rewarding career in athletics while still finding time to fulfill his passion for helping children in the community and staying committed to academic success. With strength of heart and character on his side, there’s no limit to what the future holds, and that sets Jordyn Martin – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.45
Sports/Activities
- Varsity Basketball, 2010-12; Captain, 2011-12
- JV Basketball, 2009-10
- Club Basketball for Las Vegas Dynasty, 2009-11
- Varsity Volleyball, 2009-12; Captain, 2011-12
- JV Volleyball, 2008-09
- Palo Verde Student Council, 2009-12
- Sophomore Class Secretary, 2009-10
- Student Body Secretary, 2010-11; Second Vice President, 2011-12
Awards/Community Service
- Panther Award (Volleyball), 2009
- Scholar Athlete, 2011-12
- Most Improved (Basketball), 2010-11
- 2nd Team All Northwest Region, 2010-12
- Athlete of the Week, 2010-12
- Athlete of the Month, 2011
- NAU Men’s Basketball Athletic Scholarship, 2012
- Phil Clarke Scholarship, 2012
- UNR Academic Scholarship, 2012
- Palo Verde Campus Clean-Up, 2008-12
- Toys for Tots, 2010-11
- Lupus Walk, 2009-11
- Palo Verde Basketball Camp Counselor, 2009-11
Jordyn is Successful Because: “I am a very hard worker and have high standards in everything I work to accomplish. I try my best in every situation and I am tireless in my approach. Lastly, I have always been pushed to be successful, and by giving my personal best, I know that I will achieve it.”
Jordyn is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Leaving my family and friends in the move to Las Vegas from Arizona has taught me a lot. Having to start over and make new friends forced me out of my comfort zone and made me open up more to those around me. I learned that my family will always be there for me no matter what and gaining new friends who are equally as supportive was also beneficial to my life. I have also learned that change is inevitable in life and you just have to roll with the punches and take advantage of every opportunity presented to you.”
Improving Student Life: “If I could change anything at Palo, I would want the student body to be closer as a school. There are many different cliques; however, school unity is very important. When a school is united, the atmosphere is more enjoyable for everyone. High school can be a tough place, but when you have a whole school backing you, you can achieve many things.”
A Step Above – Daniel Waqar
Advanced Technologies Academy
Class of 2012
The answers to life’s most important questions lie in the details, and those details rarely escape the sharp and inquisitive mind of Advanced Technologies Academy senior Daniel Waqar. Eloquent, personable and always informed on current events, Daniel hopes to turn a passion for public service into a career in policymaking, using his forward thinking sensibilities to help shape the way we live our lives. A small group of dedicated people is all it takes to change the world, and it’s that devoted sense of purpose that elevates Daniel Waqar to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.546
Activities/Community Service
- Nevada Delegate, 50th Annual U.S. Senate Youth Program, 2012
- Las Vegas Sun Youth Forum Representative, 2011
- Nevada Boys’ State Delegate, 2011
- Forensics Treasurer, 2010-11; President, 2011-Present
- Sr. Executive Assistant to VP of Research, Coldwell Banker, 2010-Present
- Academic WorldQuest Captain, 2011-Present
- CCSD Student Advisory Committee, 2010-11; Chairman, 2011-Present
- Nevada Youth Legislature, 2009-Present; District 9 Vice Chair, 2011-Present
- Americans for Prosperity Intern, 2012
- Varsity Quiz Treasurer, 2010-11; Co-Captain, 2011-Present
- Volunteer Tutor at Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation, 2010-Present
- Freshman Mentor, A-TECH Connects Program, 2010-Present
Awards
- Senior Social Studies Student of the Year, 2012
- Senior Legal Studies Student of the Year, 2012
- Professor R.S. Nigam NPRI Freedom Scholarship, 2012
- NV Energy Powerful Partnership Scholarship, 2012
- Sigma Pi Phi Foundation Excellence in Education Award, 2012
- George Washington Ambassador Program Essay Contest Winner, 2011
- AP Scholar, 2011
- CTA Legal Studies Student of the Year, 2011
- 3rd Place, Varsity Public Forum, Nevada State Forensics, 2011
- 1st Place, Student Congress, Spring Valley Holiday Invitational, 2009
Daniel Looks Up To: “I look up to my AP English Literature and Composition teacher, Ms. Ziegler, because of her caring, dedicated and empathetic nature. Among her students, she has earned the nickname “Mama Ziegler,” because she cares for her students as if they were her own children.”
Daniel is Stronger and Wiser Because: “As a Youth Legislator, I sponsored a bill to amend the Nevada Constitution to allow for state lotteries, the proceeds of which—estimated to be $60 million annually—would go directly to Nevada’s education fund. At the bill’s hearing, I challenged the gaming industry’s lobbyists directly, taking on the industry for its fervent opposition to a proposal that would make a significant beneficial impact to education funding.”
Improving Student Life: “If I could make changes to improve student life at my school, it would be to increase after-school tutoring. I have noticed that a great deal of students are struggling in the most basic of subjects—like geometry and English—and though I have spent years organizing collective after-school tutoring programs, more work needs to be done on this front.”
A Step Above 89117 – Katherine Knott
Faith Lutheran High School
Class of 2012
Armed with a witty sense of humor and a strong work ethic, Faith Lutheran High School senior Katherine Knott is ready to take on the world. Never afraid to share an informed opinion, Katherine’s inquiring and tenacious personality has served her well as a journalist, but her greatest rewards have come from working with Horses 4 Heroes, a nonprofit that seeks to make horseback riding affordable and accessible to families of military personnel, law enforcement and more. For staying true to herself while giving so generously to others, Katherine Knott rises to – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.02
Sports/Activities/Awards/Community Service
- Las Vegas High School Rodeo Team, 2008-12
- Crusader Chronicle Editor-in-Chief, 2011-12
- Crusader Chronicle Managing Editor, 2010-11; Features Editor, 2009-10
- Nevada Representative for VFW Voices of Democracy, 2012
- Key Club, 2009-12; Vice President, 2011-12
- National Honor Society, 2010-12; President, 2011-12
- Varsity Quiz, 2010-12; Captain, 2011-12
- Public Relations Officer, LVHS Rodeo Club, 2011-12
- English Student of the Year, 2009-11
- Social Studies Student of the Year, 2010-11
- Horses 4 Heroes, 2006-Present
- Summer Camp Director, Horses 4 Heroes, 2012
- Media Director, Horses 4 Heroes, 2010-12; Activities Director, 2011-12
Goals & Aspirations: “I am attending the University of Missouri-Columbia in the fall. That is the plan for now. My dream is to be a journalist. In ten years, I hope I will be working for the L.A. Times.”
Accomplishments Most Proud Of: “My work with Horses 4 Heroes is what I am most proud of. I have been a part of this organization for six years and it’s been amazing to watch it grow from a grassroots program into an international organization.”
Katherine is Stronger and Wiser Because: “Rejection from college was a particularly difficult time for me. Through introspection and climbs up Lone Mountain, I discovered what I really wanted and realized that those colleges missed out. Overall, I learned not to base my opinion of myself off the acceptance of certain institutions.”
Cause for Concern: “I would be president of the SPCA. I have a love for animals and this organization does great things. As president, I would continue to support the mission of the SPCA. Helping animals is a rewarding experience and it would be an honor to serve as president.”
Miguel Henares
Liberty High School
Class of 2012
With a winning smile and a casual charm, Liberty High School senior Miguel Henares is a young man completely at ease with himself. Respectful, generous and driven to succeed, he’s transformed opportunity into excellence at every turn. A strong passion for leadership has opened many doors, taking this dedicated honor student on a journey through music, service and scholarship, heading toward a bright future. Ask if he’s ready to face what lies ahead and you’ll see nothing but confidence in that smile, and that helps place Miguel Henares – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.8
Activities
- Varsity Quiz, 2009-12; Co-Captain 2011-12
- Sound of Liberty Marching Band, 2008-12; Drum Major, 2011-12
- Concert Band, 2008-12; Principal French Horn, 2008-12
- Jazz Band, 2009-10 & 2012
- Nevada All-State Musician, 2009-12
- Nevada Boys’ State Delegate, 2011
- National Honor Society, 2010-12; President, 2011-12
- Key Club, 2008-12; Bulletin Editor, 2009-10
- Nevada Junior Classical League, 2010-12; Vice President, 2011-12
- AP Club, 2009-12
- Men’s Barbershop Quartet (Baritone), 2010-12
Awards/Community Service
- Valedictorian Candidate, 2012
- Straight A Honor Roll, 2008-12
- Academic Scholar Award, 2008-12
- Nevada Solo & Ensemble, Superior Rating for French Horn & Trumpet, 2012
- Ronald McDonald House Charities Scholarship Recipient, 2012
- Bill Endow Scholarship Recipient, 2012
- Band Member of the Year, 2012
- Relay for Life Committee Member, 2010-12; Registration Co-Chair, 2010-11
- United Blood Services Blood Drive Volunteer, 2010-12
- Schorr Elementary School Volunteer, 2010-12
Miguel is Successful Because: “I am extremely self-motivated. My parents are proud of all my accomplishments and are very supportive, but I’m the one that actually pushes me to be the best that I can be. I guess that I have a competitive edge because I’m always striving to be on top. I think my desire for greatness and ‘go-getter’ attitude have propelled me to success.”
Miguel is Stronger and Wiser Because: “I was depressed for a while after my parents were divorced. After sixteen years of seeing them together, it was difficult to grasp the situation. However, I knew that I couldn’t let it get to me. I persevered and eventually adapted. Now I know that it’s never the end of the world no matter what kinds of terrible things cross my path. Everything gets easier with time.”
Cause for Concern: “I have been very involved in community service throughout high school, so heading any charity would be incredible. However, I have a bond with the American Cancer Society because I have done some work with them in the past for Relay for Life. The Public Education Foundation is another organization that I admire because of their dedication to the youth of Clark County.”
Marissa Iwanylo
Green Valley High School
Class of 2012
Whether it’s taking charge on the softball field, helping others from the sidelines or striving toward a career in medicine, Green Valley High School senior Marissa Iwanylo has the vitality and resolve of a born leader. Spirited, gracious and always giving of herself, Marissa embraces life by staying active, keeping clear goals for tomorrow and putting no limits on her potential. Making the most out of every day helps us make the most out of our future, and it’s that capability for foresight and perseverance that helps keep Marissa Iwanylo – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 4.657
Sports/Activities
- Softball, 2008-12; Leader, 2011-12
- Travel Softball, 2008-12; Leader, 2011-12
- Basketball, 2008-12
- Travel Basketball, 2008-11
- Golf, 2011-12
- C.H.A.N.C.E., 2011-12
- Spanish Honors Club, 2010-12
- I.B. Honor Society, 2011-12
Awards/Community Service
- Female Athlete of the Year (LVAC), 2012
- Female Athlete of the Month (GVHS), 2011
- Campion Scholarship from Seattle University, 2012
- Founder’s Scholarship from Syracuse University, 2012
- Scholar Athlete, 2010-11
- Volunteer for Catholic Worker, 2011-12
Marissa Looks Up To: “I don’t look up to any one person. I look up to all those people who live their lives to help others. They are selfless and want to make the world a better place. That is what I want to do with my life, help people so their lives are better.”
Marissa is Stronger and Wiser Because: “An experience that made me stronger was when I broke my ankle my junior year during softball. I had to learn how to be a leader and teacher off the field because I couldn’t play. It made me a stronger leader and taught me how to express my feelings for the game in a way I have never experienced before.”
Improving Student Life: “I would change school spirit so that all sports would be supported, even the girls. Family members always tell me about when they were in school and how everyone would support each other. No one really ever does that for the sports I play, and the excuse I always hear is it’s because we’re girls and it’s boring. I think if school spirit were better, our school would be more united.”
Part of the Solution: “An issue facing young adults today is social networking sites. It seems to be all they ever do, which starts drama and fighting, leading to cyber bullying and worse. I rarely do anything on them because I find them to be a waste of time. I can tell people not to talk badly about others online, but it’s hard when so many people use the sites for these purposes.”
Brielle Crovetti
Bishop Gorman High School
Class of 2012
Hook ‘em, Horns! With her longtime dream of attending the University of Texas at Austin finally coming true, Bishop Gorman High School senior Brielle Crovetti has a bright tomorrow ahead of her. She’s worked hard to get there, too, balancing sports and school while holding various leadership positions with the National Charity League, a mother-daughter philanthropic organization. Forthright and forward thinking but always humble, she’s quick to acknowledge the best in others while staying focused on priorities such as family and education. For all that and more, Brielle Crovetti stands – A Step Above.
G.P.A.: 3.96
Sports/Activities/Community Service
- Women’s Soccer, 2008-12; Captain, 2011
- Cross Country, 2008-10
- Track, 2009 & 2012
- Academic Honor Society, 2008-10; President, 2010
- National Honor Society, 2010-12
- Best Buddies, 2011; Secretary, 2011
- Science National Honor Society, 2010-12
- Mu Alpha Theta (Math) Honor Society, 2010-12
- National Charity League, 2006-12; President, 2009; Treasurer, 2012
Awards
- Scholar Athlete, 2008-12
- Coach’s Award, 2008
- Nevada All-State Academic Team (Cross Country), 2008-09
- Nevada State Champions (Women’s Soccer), 2012
- Nevada All-State Academic Champions (Women’s Soccer), 2012
- National Charity League Yellow Rosebud Award, 2009-10
- National Charity League Yellow Rose Award, 2011
Brielle Looks Up To: “I look up to my dad, Dr. Crovetti, for many reasons. I strive to become as successful as he did in his work and school, as well as his amazing personality. I can’t wait to become a doctor like him. In addition to my dad, I look up to my mom as well. She has taught me the importance of charity, and the roles each and every one of us play in society.”
Part of the Solution: “The key issue facing young adults is the personal battle of self-esteem. So many things are driven by insecurities people have within themselves. Things such as bullying and violence derive from personal issues one has with oneself. Unfortunately, it is a rather hard problem to fix, but I always try my best to acknowledge the gifts and talents of individuals I cross paths with. I feel that it is important to recognize people for the good qualities they contain, rather than the negative aspects. Everyone has something special to offer.”
Cause for Concern: “I would want to be the president of Boys and Girls Club because it gives less fortunate kids a chance and hope for a better future. I am a strong believer that anybody can become anything they strive to be as long as they work hard and are presented with opportunity. Boys and Girls Club gives children of all ages the opportunity to excel and be in control of his or her own life.”
